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The Schenectady County Legislature is hosting a drive-thru food pantry today (Thursday, November 6) at SUNY Schenectady on Washington Avenue, starting at 5:30 p.m. This event, organized in partnership with the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, aims to support local recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the ongoing federal government shutdown. Due to the shutdown, SNAP benefits were not distributed on November 1, affecting millions nationwide, including over 21,000 residents in Schenectady County.
The pantry will provide essential groceries to those in need, but supplies are limited. Vehicles should enter the college campus through the Western Gateway Bridge entrance, as the Washington Avenue entrance will be closed during the event. The county is also extending its "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" food drive to further support families facing food insecurity.
Gary Hughes, chair of the Schenectady County Legislature, emphasized the importance of the pantry, stating, "This drive-thru pantry is one way we can support our neighbors and provide immediate assistance to families who are struggling to put food on the table while the federal government is shut down." The Schenectady Foundation has committed $100,000 to help keep pantry stocks filled, including a $25,000 matching offer for contributions made to its Food Security Fund during November.
For those experiencing food insecurity or disruptions in SNAP benefits, additional resources and information about local pantries and meal programs can be found on the county's website.
According to the Daily Gazette, the county is also planning to establish the Schenectady County Food Insecurity Initiative, which would allocate $150,000 to support local food providers during this challenging time.